Robertson calls on Reds to be alert to Atletico tactics

Andy Robertson admits Liverpool will have to be more alert to Atletico Madrid’s spoiling tactics when the sides meet again next month.

The Reds will need to overturn a 1-0 aggregate deficit at Anfield after a frustrating first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.

The holders were stung by a fourthminute goal from Saul Niguez and – despite dominating possession – were unable to respond as the Spanish side got players behind the ball and sat back.

These defensive tactics were stifling for both Liverpool and the contest as a spectacle but the visitors’ real irritation came from Atletico’s apparent gamesmanship.

The hosts appeared to run through a whole range of time-wasting tricks from delaying throw-ins to prolonged injury stoppages while also making the most of any contact to win free-kicks.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp even said he withdrew striker Sadio Mane at half-time because he feared Atletico’s histrionics could earn him a second yellow card from referee Szymon Marciniak.

Scotland captain Robertson said: “We knew what we were coming up against. We’ve played Spanish teams before. It’s the way they play and they were really good at it.

“We can’t change it now but I don’t think he’s the referee at Anfield, so that’s one positive.

“We need to be a bit more savvy next time and hopefully the referee can see through it as well. Then hopefully the Anfield noise can get behind us and guide us to victory.”

Liverpool now want their fans to emulate their Atletico counterparts and create a ferocious atmosphere in the second leg.

Anfield has played host to many glorious European nights, the greatest of which arguably came in last year’s semifinals as the Merseysiders memorably turned a 3-0 first-leg loss to Barcelona into a 4-3 aggregate win.

The former Dundee United defender said: “Anfield is big and amazing for us but we can’t take it for granted.

“I know the fans won’t take it for granted either that it will just be another special night. We need to make it a special Anfield night.”

Andy Robertson: Reds need to be savvy.